Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during my first lesson?
A first lesson usually consists of a chat about what you would like to play on your guitar. If you are not sure I am happy to demonstrate various styles and techniques to help you decide.
If you don’t yet own an instrument, you are welcome to try out my guitars to help you decide what to buy.
I am always happy to fit in with whatever style you would like to play. Some of my students like to take graded exams to give them a measure of their ability and others just want to play for fun or to accompany themselves singing. Many of my students are self taught and need some one to one tuition to help them with their playing. In this case I make an informal assessment of their abilities and plan a way forward.
What do I need to bring?
Just yourself and your guitar for the first lesson and I will provide hand outs. An A4 folder will be useful for future sessions and I will recommend any suitable books for the future.
How much do I need to practice?
I recommend short sessions of 20 minutes per day for a beginner and no more than 45 minute sessions for the more advanced player.
Do I have to learn to read music?
Yes if you want to play classical guitar and it is also a useful skill to help you communicate with other musicians and understand music theory.
No if you want to play acoustic or electric guitar as other forms of notation are used. In this case I always encourage students to learn rhythm notation (time values) which is an important part of being a musician.
How do I pay for my lessons?
Lessons can be paid for on the day by cash, cheque or BACS. All lessons cancelled within 24 hours of the arranged time and not rescheduled during the same week are charged for at the full rate unless the cancellation is due to illness or a genuine emergency.
Is there a minimum age you start teaching at?
I usually find 9 – 10 is a good age to start.
Do you teach people who are retired?
Yes many retired people come along looking for a new hobby and find the guitar a rewarding choice.
Please give me a call – 07771 856508
If it’s the answer phone, please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible (I avoid answering the phone and disturbing a lesson if I am teaching).
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I will be happy to arrange a time for you to come and have a chat about the style you would like to learn.
If you are a beginner, I can demonstrate various styles, techniques, instruments and advise you on what to buy etc. There is no charge for these introductory sessions.